Q. I love your column with the low-cost remedies. I have horrible eczema and my granddaughter has inherited it from me.
My grandson has really BAD diaper rash. It is hard for him to walk, and he cries when we bathe him or clean his bottom. Someone suggested making a “paste” with Maalox but I don’t know how that would work. Do you have any suggestions?
A. The Pharmacist’s Letter, a professional publication, classifies Maalox for diaper rash as a rumor. Nonetheless, many parents and some pharmacists are enthusiastic about this treatment for diaper rash.
In this home remedy, the baby’s skin is cleaned promptly and gently with plain water. Maalox liquid is applied with a cotton ball. Once it has dried, a protective barrier like Aquaphor or zinc oxide cream can be smoothed on gently.
If the rash persists for more than a few days, it makes sense to check with the baby’s doctor. Too frequent use of Maalox might expose a baby to excessive amounts of aluminum and magnesium, especially if the skin is irritated. A diaper rash caused by yeast may disappear after treatment with an antifungal cream.
